St. Ignatius Seniors: How to avoid foodborne illness

Adults 65 and older are at higher risk for hospitalization and death from foodborne illnesses. This is because, as we age, our body organs undergo changes as well.

The gastrointestinal tract motility slows down, holding food for longer periods of time, allowing bacteria to grow. The stomach may not produce enough acid, allowing bacteria to grow.

The kidneys and liver may not be able to properly rid our bodies of foreign bacteria and toxins as we age. Chronic conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease increase one’s risk of foodborne illness.

To prevent foodborne illnesses: Wash hands with warm, soapy water before and after handling food, using the bathroom, handling pets, changing a diaper, blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing, tending to a sick person and after handling raw meat, fish, poultry or raw eggs.

Wash all surfaces with hot, soapy water that come in contact with raw meat, poultry, fish and eggs before moving on to the next step of food preparation. Keep cutting boards clean by washing them in hot, soapy water, and sanitize them with a bleach solution of one tablespoon of bleach in a gallon of water. Flood the board with the bleach solution, let stand for several minutes, then rinse and air or pat dry.

It can’t be stressed enough to wash your hands and keep your prep and cooking area clean. (From the usda.gov website)

The center hosts the Good Old Days pancake breakfast, 7-11 a.m. July 11, and bingo that afternoon at 2 p.m.

Gentle Yoga is Wednesdays at 1 p.m. ($5); bring your own mat.

Everyone is welcome at our meals (young and old). Come enjoy a delicious meal and good conversation. If you want a take-out meal, please call 406-745-4462 by 10 a.m. on Tuesday and Friday and by 2 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday; lunch is served at noon Tuesday and Friday and 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Menus for the month are available in the entryway.

The main dishes for the upcoming week include hot dogs and baked beans July 7; and spaghetti, July 10. Milk is available at all meals. The center is closed July 3.

Our senior center is available for rent; call for information. If you have questions about obtaining Elder Commodities, call or stop by for information and an application.